World Cup Spain‑Austria match fuels flag protests and celebrity outfit debate

Actor Javier Bardem attended the Spain‑Austria World Cup match at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium wearing a plain brown T‑shirt, avoiding the Spanish national jersey. His neutral choice sparked a social‑media storm, especially after weeks earlier he had been photographed in a Paris Saint‑Germain kit. Fellow celebrities Penélope Cruz, Rosalía and Alexia Putellas displayed Spanish colors, intensifying the contrast.

After Egypt qualified for the tournament’s round of 16, the Egyptian coach raised a Palestinian flag, declaring his “heart and soul” were with the Palestinian people. Palestinian flags were also spotted among spectators at the Spain‑Austria game, highlighting the politicised atmosphere surrounding the World Cup fixtures.